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Definition of clef

clef

/klɛf/
clef
Plural:clefs
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clef Lexical Profile

clef Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A symbol placed at the beginning of a musical staff to indicate the pitch of the notes written on the lines and spaces.

Example

"Piano sheet music is typically written using both the treble clef for the right hand and the bass clef for the left hand."

• Rhymes for clef

• Nearby Words

cleave
cleaver
cleavers
clef
cleft
clematis
clemency

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the mid-16th century from Middle French clef ('key'), ultimately from Latin clāvis ('key'), reflecting the symbol's role in unlocking the pitch values of a musical staff.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Clef. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/clef
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